David made several questionable decisions in I Samuel 21. At the start, he lies to a temple priest about being on a mission for Saul. In the next chapter Saul kills the priest (and many others), an act that might not have happened if David had told the truth.

Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do it for you.”

(Chapter 20, vs 4)

Think it through:

Now here’s a story of a truly great friendship (perhaps the greatest friendship recorded in the Bible—or anywhere!), that between Jonathan and David. These two friends loved each other greatly. Can you picture them meeting one another, discovering their nearly instant rapport? I can imagine them hanging out, sharing confidences with one another, and enjoying the ringing sound of their combined laughter.

“They have credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?”

Vs 7&8

Think it through

Saul began as a proud supporter of David. After all, David’s successes in battle were Saul’s successes. He promoted the young leader quickly. But as soon as Saul heard the people sing David’s praises, his heart changed. David had entered Saul’s territory, becoming more popular that he was in his land of Israel. Saul became jealous (vs 8), then watchful (vs 9), and then murderous (vs 11).

All those gathered here will know that it is not by the sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.

(vs 47)

Think it through

As he says these words, David is looking up at Goliath. Nine foot tall Goliath (I can look at my eight foot-high ceiling to get some perspective on that!). Covered in armor Goliath. Wielding a huge sword Goliath. And next to him, there’s young, ruddy David with his slingshot and five smooth stones.

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

(vs 7)

Think it through

So let’s kick off this series with one of my favorite verses from David’s part in God’s story, I Samuel 16:7. This verse reminds us that God knows us, inside and out. When He looks at you and me, He sees the special and unique children He created.